Laura Lee Richards

Laura Lee Richards

“Doris” to her beloved Bryson

June 9, 1966 – May 26, 2025

With grace, resilience, and a heart full of love, Laura Lee Richards of Hopedale, Ohio, peacefully departed this world surrounded by the care and comfort of her loved ones in the care of Valley Hospice at the Mary Brooks Center.

Born in Martins Ferry, Ohio on June 9, 1966, Laura was a proud graduate of Cadiz High School. She dedicated over 15 years of service as a laundry attendant at Gables Care Center, where she was cherished not just for her work ethic, but for her sharp wit and unapologetic honesty.

Laura lived for her family. Her pride and joy was her son, Joshua Richards, of Tappan Lake, whose life she shaped with her wisdom, strength, and unwavering support. Her greatest accomplishment was not measured by accolades but by the love she gave, especially in the final chapters of her life when her voice became a compass for those closest to her.

She is survived by her devoted mother, Dianna Case Dunlap, of Hopedale, Ohio; her brothers John Trushel (Hopedale) and Jim Dunlap (Cadiz); her stepmother Christine Richards (Pittsburgh, PA); and her sisters Amy (Chris) Weigold, Lisa (Fernando) Palombo, and Tracy Richards, all of Pittsburgh, PA. Many friends but most notably Tammy Ruckman, and Sis (David) Carothers of Hopedale.

She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, especially the three she helped raise: Brandi (Travis) O’Neil, Codi (Rhonda) Trushel, and Aaron (Rachael) Trushel.

Laura is also survived by aunts Rene (Harry) Pokora, Robyn Clark (Pittsburgh, PA), and Verna Rensi (Hopedale, OH); uncles Rich (Debbie Walker) Case, Mark Case, and Joe (Lana) Case, all of Hopedale, OH.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Jesse Richards and Gloria Capers-Hamilton; her maternal grandparents, Bill and Bernice Case; her father Randy Richards; her beloved dad James Dunlap Sr.; and her sister Amy Jo Dunlap Williams.

To those who knew her, Laura was a fortress of strength—caring but never silent, selfless yet unyielding. Her voice, her laughter, and her presence filled a room in a way that cannot be forgotten.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Valley Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion during Laura’s final days. A special thank you is reserved for Rachael, whose steadfast presence and years of love and support brought peace and joy to Aunt Laurie’s life—you are forever cherished.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. until time her of funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Hopedale Church of Christ, 306 Lahm Drive, Hopedale with Dean Blythe officiating. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family. The family is being assisted by Clark-Kirkland-Barr Funeral Home, Cadiz, Ohio. The memorial guestbook may be signed at www.clark-kirkland-barr.com.

Memorial Contributions can be sent to:

Joshua Richards

C/O Attorney A. Jenna Hokes

105 Jamison Ave

Cadiz, Ohio, 43976